Landlord kept your deposit? Entered without notice? Threatening eviction? Describe what happened in your own words and get a plain-English breakdown, severity rating, step-by-step next steps, and ready-to-send letters — specific to Ohio law.
Get My Ohio Action Plan — Free to StartOhio returns the deposit within 30 days after the tenant gives up occupancy and terminates the rental agreement, but the tenant must provide a written forwarding address or forfeits the right to the deposit (ORC § 5321.16). There is no statutory rent grace period. The statute requires 'reasonable notice' of entry, with 'twenty-four hours presumed to be a reasonable notice in the absence of evidence to the contrary' (ORC § 5321.04(A)(8)); lockouts and utility shutoffs as eviction tactics are prohibited.
30 days after move-out, with an itemized statement for any deductions.
Landlords must generally give 24-hour notice before entering, except in emergencies.
No. Eviction requires a court process — lockouts, belongings removal, and utility shutoffs without a court order are illegal.
Legal Aid Society of Cleveland at 216-861-5955. You can also call or text 211 for local referrals.